Sierra Leone, a stunning nation boasting lush rainforest landscapes, remains largely undiscovered despite the introduction of direct flights from the UK.
Every year, Intrepid Travel unveils its Not Hot List featuring ten under-the-radar destinations deemed ready for a tourism boost in 2026. The list aims to steer travelers towards places where their visits can make a positive difference.
Among the highlighted destinations is Sierra Leone, which recently implemented a groundbreaking 10-year tourism strategy to entice global tourists and position itself as an ecotourism pioneer.
In 2024, Sierra Leone welcomed a mere 60,890 international overnight visitors, in stark contrast to Ghana’s 1.2 million tourists. However, with President Julius Maada Bio’s initiation of the country’s inaugural long-term tourism plan, Sierra Leone aims to lead in sustainable travel.
The country’s endeavor to reshape its global image and attract more foreign visitors follows the aftermath of a decade-long civil war that resulted in the deaths of 70,000 individuals and the displacement of 2.5 million.
Sierra Leone recently achieved a positive milestone with the commencement of direct flights from London and the inauguration of a new eco-friendly airport terminal.
At the core of Sierra Leone’s tourism transformation lies Tiwai Island, renowned for its diverse wildlife and part of the Gola Forest National Park, serving as a haven for rare flora and fauna.
In July 2025, Tiwai Island attained UNESCO World Heritage status, managed by the Environmental Foundation for Africa in collaboration with eight local communities reinvesting all tourism proceeds into community development.
Adventurous travelers can now explore Tiwai Island on the new eight-day Sierra Leone Adventure: History, Culture & Nature journey, experiencing a night in the rainforest enveloping the island, guided by locals on night walks through dense jungles and tranquil boat cruises along the Moa River.
All destinations on the Not Hot list currently draw limited international visitors, showcasing potential for growth in sustainable tourism practices.
Intrepid’s Chief Marketing Officer, Hazel McGuire, emphasized that the Not Hot List aims to highlight countries like Sierra Leone that are striving to revive their tourism sectors in a sustainable manner, without solely promoting Intrepid’s tours.
Given the rising issue of overtourism globally, Intrepid seeks to mitigate its impact by making adjustments to tours, such as opting for accommodations outside crowded city centers and offering alternative timings for popular attractions to reduce congestion.
Intrepid also focuses on spreading tourism benefits throughout the year, extending travel seasons in certain regions to alleviate pressure on popular destinations during peak periods.
Overall, the Not Hot List sheds light on destinations working towards sustainable tourism development, encouraging travelers to explore lesser-known gems while promoting responsible travel practices.